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When to go to the Maldives

The Maldives is a fantastic holiday destination at any time of year. But the best time to go will depend on what you want to do when you get there, whether it's snorkelling, swimming with manta rays or having fun with the family. Here's our guide on the best times to visit the Maldives.

 

January - April: Best for snorkelling and diving

Dive into the crystal clear turquoise waters of the Maldives from January to April for the most dazzling underwater displays. With less plankton in the water, visibility is at its best this time of year, providing you with excellent conditions for snorkelling and diving. Vibrant coral reefs are home to schools of bright orange clownfish darting in and out of the rocky voids and turtle who glide effortlessly through the waves. Above the surface, the sun shines bright, and the air feels pleasantly warm. February and March tend to be the driest months.

July - August: Best for family fun

Whisk the kids away for an unforgettable family adventure in the Maldives in July and August. Soak up the warm sunshine and swim in the temperate seas as you cruise around the Maldives archipelago. There's a risk of thunderstorms at this time of year, and the water is less clear due to an increase in plankton, but rain showers are short-lived, and prices tend to be lower. Snorkel over coral reefs in search of turtle, catch fish for dinner, sleep on deck under a blanket of twinkling stars and head ashore for beach BBQs and local market shopping.

September - November: Best time to see Manta Ray

If seeing manta ray is high on your priority list, September, October and November are the best months to visit the Maldives. A proliferation of plankton draws these majestic creatures in to feed, so the chances of swimming with them are higher. After your swim, return to the Dhoni boat for an afternoon tea of freshly baked cakes with afternoon tea. Spend warm evenings relaxing on a tropical sandy beach.

December: Best for winter sun, Christmas and New Year

Swap grey, dreary days for bright winter sunshine on a trip to the Maldives in December. Travel earlier in the month for the best deals, or treat yourself to an exotic Christmas and New Year celebration. Wake up on a traditional Dhoni boat, surrounded by glistening turquoise blue water on Christmas day morning and enjoy a tasty breakfast of fresh fruit, pancakes and omelettes. Relax on deck with a good book and jump into the warm water for a quick swim.

 

Explore our Maldives tours

No matter what time of year you choose to visit the Maldives, you're sure to come home with memories to last a lifetime. Choose from our Maldive dhoni cruise or a Maldives trip that also visits nearby Sri Lanka for even more once-in-a-lifetime experiences.
View all Maldives trips